Can Salt Water Cure Gingivitis? What Science & Dentists Say

Salt water is a common home remedy for gum irritation, but can salt water cure gingivitis? The quick answer is: salt water helps manage symptoms, but it does not cure gingivitis. Studies show salt water rinses can reduce inflammation and temporarily lower bacteria in the mouth, providing relief from bleeding and swelling. However, saltwater does not remove the plaque and tartar that cause gingivitis, nor can it halt gum disease alone.



Can Salt Water Cure Gingivitis?

• Salt water rinses soothe gums and reduce minor swelling.
  
  
• Salt is a mild antiseptic, but not a substitute for brushing, flossing, or dental cleanings.
  
  
• Medical research finds salt water is less effective than some medicated mouthwashes for treating plaque and gingivitis.
  
  
• Gingivitis is reversible with professional care and good oral hygiene, salt water is only a helpful supplement.

At Schwimmer Dental, patients often ask, “Can salt water cure gingivitis?” Most get temporary relief, but true healing only happens after professional cleaning and daily brushing. A 2017 study showed no significant improvement in gingival scores after 30 days of salt water rinses alone.

Salt water can ease discomfort but cannot cure gingivitis. Schedule a “Gum Rescue” visit at Schwimmer Dental now. Our team will create a custom plan to kick gingivitis for good!

Sources:

1. https://www.greenponddental.com/blog/salt-water-gingivitis-treatment
2. https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/gingivitis-home-remedy
3. https://enviroliteracy.org/can-salt-water-rinse-heal-gum-infection/
4. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5749280/
5. https://www.listerine.in/gum-disease-healthy-gums/treat-gingivitis-gum-disease
6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34916636/
7. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319268
8. https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/mouth-sores-and-infections/how-salt-water-mouth-rinse-benefits-oral-health
9. https://www.leaf.tv/saltwater-rinse-for-gum-infection.html
10. https://journals.lww.com/jped/fulltext/2017/35040/comparative_evaluation_of_salt_water_rinse_with.8.aspx
11. https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-make-saline-solution-salt-water-mouth-rinse-4109216